Our most intimate dolphin and wildlife experience in Akaroa, just 90-minutes from Christchurch. Swim with Hector’s dolphins and view marine animals that inhabit the beautiful harbour and its extinct volcano!
Swimming with Dolphins - Akaroa, watch the video above!
Step into our world and immerse yourself in New Zealand’s authentic eco-tourism adventure. Cruise through the magnificent Akaroa Harbour and encounter the wild Hector’s dolphins in their natural habitat.
The tour begins at our facility on Akaroa’s main wharf, where you’ll meet fellow adventurers and change into the provided wetsuits. After briefing, step onboard our purpose-built boats and embark on an in-depth journey to get really close to the native wildlife on the Akaroa Harbour.
You'll have the opportunity to swim with Hector’s dolphins, get close to ancient volcanic cliffs to view New Zealand fur seals and other marine birdlife.
As strong advocates and active contributors to conservation, the itinerary is designed to respect the wildlife and our environment. As we navigate the harbour our Skipper and Nature Guide will talk you through Akaroa’s geological features and wildlife conservation - plus guide you on how to encounter the Hector’s dolphins while respecting their natural behaviours. A portion of your ticket will go towards the Department of Conservation’s fund.
Capture memories, and ignite your adventurous spirit!
Refund Policy:
We’re confident that you’ll see the Hector’s Dolphin on our excursions. In the unlikely event you don’t see a Hector’s dolphin, we’ll love for you to join us again – you’ll receive an open dated Akaroa Nature Re-Cruise voucher for another chance to see these magical creatures.
All prices are shown in NZD ($)
It was fun to celebrate Christmas eve swimming with dolphins. The experience was great and I had so much fun. The staff were so good, the service was really great! So helpful and they made sure that everyone is having a great time and at the same time feeling safe. I love their wet suit, it makes you float in the water, you won't struggle to keep your self afloat which is cool! It makes it easier to swim with the dolphins. It was really fun!
Amazing experience! Such a memory. Just perfect!
Friendly team with knowledge of the place and the wildlife. They made sure there was plenty of time to spend in the water with dolphins, looking out for everyone Hot chocolate and biscuits were a nice touch after the swim. I definitely recommend ! :)
Ocean swell left me less than confident to swim so staff transferred my ticket to the Dolphin Cruise departing an hour later that day, at no extra cost. Tip: Bring a warm hat/beanie even in summer, if you plan to view from the top deck outside. Staff kindly loaned me a proper windproof jacket. The young skipper was enthusiastic and provided a (nearly) continual commentary, barely stopping for breath. I overheard tourists mention that they did enjoy his commentary though. One brief sighting of a tiny Hector dolphin and a few fur seals. The skipper explained the company ethos of NOT feeding dolphins to lure them and respecting their space, which is fantastic and commendable. Steps to upper deck are narrow and small so non slip footwear is best. Ocean cruising is a great way to de-stress and unwind. I even got my Titanic moment. I'd do this every day if I could! Highly recommended.
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kirstscott from New Zealand wrote on 26 January 2022
Great experience
Was a great morning out in the harbour, the sky was blue and the sea was calm, we did see the dolphins but they didn't want to play with us that day. The crew did their best but a jetski decided to ruin the fun. The staff were amazing and we would try again another time.